World Banquet to celebrate 'Crossroads of Culture'

VALPARAISO | The 32nd annual Valparaiso University World Banquet, sponsored by the Valparaiso International Student Association (VISA) and the Office of International Programs, begins at 6 p.m. Saturday in the Harre Union Ballroom. The theme for this year is "Crossroads of Culture."

"Through the World Banquet, VISA students aim to display the crossroads of culture here at Valpo," said Lydia Mertz, president of VISA. "This is a night of celebration of who we are as the international community at Valpo."

The banquet will include performances and cuisines from more than 15 different countries. While Valpo dining services transports guests to the Silk Road with their vast array of dishes, emcees Ashley Coday, from the United States, and Ali Alneaimi, from the United Arab Emirates, will lead the group on a journey of entertainment including the "Parade of Nations" and performances by international students.

"With close to 50 countries being represented on campus, the World Banquet is an opportunity for our international students to share a bit more of who they are and where they come from, not just to their friends and the Valpo community, but also to the city of Valparaiso at large," said Holly Singh, director of international students and scholars.

Tickets can be purchased in the Harre Union: $10 for all students and children (VU students can purchase up to two tickets on meal cards), all others $15.